The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a significant policy change: starting from the academic year 2025–26, students in Classes 10 and 12 must have a minimum of 75% attendance to be eligible to sit for their board examinations.
📌 Why This Move?
The policy is designed to:
- Improve classroom discipline
- Encourage regular participation
- Reinforce the importance of academic consistency
This attendance rule applies to all CBSE-affiliated schools across India and abroad.
📝 Exemptions & Special Cases
CBSE has stated that genuine cases of absenteeism will be considered, including:
- Medical emergencies
- Participation in sports, NCC/NSS events
- Exceptional circumstances such as bereavement in the family
- Disability or long-term illness backed by medical documentation
Parents and schools are expected to report such cases in advance or maintain proper records for review by CBSE’s regional offices.
🏫 Role of Schools
Schools have been instructed to:
- Maintain accurate attendance records
- Regularly inform parents about their child’s attendance status
- Submit reports of students falling short of the 75% mark by January 2026
CBSE will issue further clarifications or circulars on the deadline for attendance submission and the review process.
📣 Reactions from the Education Community
Many educators have welcomed the move, calling it a positive step toward academic seriousness. However, some have expressed concerns about student well-being, especially in post-pandemic times.
A principal from a leading school shared,
“It’s a wake-up call for parents and students to take regular schooling seriously. But the board should also be empathetic about mental health and legitimate issues.”
✅ What Students Should Do
- Track your attendance regularly
- Submit medical certificates promptly in case of illness
- Avoid missing school unless necessary
- Communicate proactively with teachers and administration
